Name: Baked Boursin Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Ingredients: 4 6 oz. skinless salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 2 tablespoons old style Dijon mustard; Salt and ground black pepper (to taste); 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (optional); Lemon slices (for serving, optional); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2/3 cup chicken stock; 1 5 oz. pack Boursin Garlic & Herbs Cheese (at room temperature); 1-2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Introduction to Baked Boursin Salmon

Cooking at home can be a delightful adventure, and there's nothing quite like the standout Baked Boursin Salmon to impress your family or guests. Baking salmon not only locks in moisture and flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy—making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. Did you know that salmon is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health? The American Heart Association recommends incorporating fish into your diet at least twice a week for its numerous benefits.

Why Bake Salmon at Home?

So, why should you whip up this scrumptious dish in your own kitchen? For starters, making your own meals allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that you use high-quality fish and seasonal flavors everyone will love. With the Boursin cheese sauce, you get a gourmet touch that elevates the dish without the need for culinary training. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to experiment with flavors right at home.

Imagine serving a flaky, tender salmon topped with a creamy, herb-infused sauce that makes your taste buds sing! Not only is this meal a feast for the senses, but it’s also a cinch to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Are you ready to dive into this delicious recipe? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Baked Boursin Salmon

When it comes to creating a luscious and flavorful dish like Baked Boursin Salmon, selecting the right ingredients is crucial. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential ingredients for the salmon

Salmon fillets: Four 6 oz. skinless fillets will be the star of your dish. Choose high-quality salmon for a richer flavor.
Lemon juice and olive oil: These two ingredients add brightness and depth to the salmon, making each bite refreshing.
Minced garlic: A must-have for that aromatic kick, garlic infuses the dish with its robust flavor.
Dijon mustard: This tangy ingredient not only enhances taste but also helps create a lovely crust on the salmon.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, they elevate all the other flavors in the dish.

Making the Boursin cheese sauce

Unsalted butter: Start with butter to create a base for your sauce; it adds creaminess and richness.
Chicken stock: A flavorful stock acts as a perfect backdrop for the Boursin cheese. Homemade or store-bought will work well.
Boursin Garlic & Herbs Cheese: The creamy star of the show, this cheese lends richness and an herby taste to your sauce.
More lemon juice: A splash of lemon juice at the end balances the richness and brings brightness.

This combination of ingredients ensures your Baked Boursin Salmon will be a delightful dish everyone will love! For tips on cooking techniques and pairing suggestions, check out Food Network and Serious Eats.

Step-by-step Preparation of Baked Boursin Salmon

Preheat and Prepare

To kick things off, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature is just right for achieving that flaky, tender salmon we all love. While the oven is heating, lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking. Pro tip: a light drizzle of olive oil or cooking spray does the trick wonderfully. This step sets the stage for your delectable Baked Boursin Salmon, ensuring it cooks evenly and comes out moist.

Season the Salmon

Once your oven is ready, it’s time to focus on the star of the show—your salmon fillets. Pat each fillet dry with a paper towel; this helps the seasonings adhere better. In a small bowl, mix together freshly squeezed lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and old-style Dijon mustard for a zesty marinade. Place the fillets into the greased baking dish and rub this mouthwatering mixture all over them. Don’t forget to sprinkle a generous pinch of salt and ground black pepper for that delicious flavor punch. For an extra touch, you can add fresh chopped parsley if you have some on hand.

Bake the Salmon to Perfection

Now that our salmon is seasoned to perfection, pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. This quick baking time maintains the fish's natural juiciness. As you wait, your kitchen will be filled with an enticing aroma that will surely get everyone's attention.

Make the Boursin Cheese Sauce

While the salmon bakes, let’s whip up the creamy Boursin cheese sauce. In a small pot over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Then, pour in chicken stock and blend in the Boursin Garlic & Herbs Cheese until it’s fully incorporated. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens beautifully. To brighten up the flavors, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice right before taking it off the heat. This sauce is a decadent game-changer that elevates your Baked Boursin Salmon to a whole new level.

Assemble and Serve

Now for the grand finale—assembly! Once the salmon is baked perfectly, drizzle the creamy Boursin sauce over the top, allowing it to mix with the savory pan juices. This combo creates a mouthwatering experience with every bite. You can finish it off with a sprinkle of parsley for that extra pop of color. Serve alongside lemon slices for a refreshing squeeze right before digging in. Your friends and family will be raving about this dish!

You can savor this delightful Baked Boursin Salmon with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Enjoy!

Variations on Baked Boursin Salmon

Swap the salmon for another fish

If you're not a fan of salmon or simply want to try something new, consider swapping it for other fish like tilapia, trout, or even cod. Each of these fish provides its unique flavor and texture, allowing you to customize your Baked Boursin experience. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets to keep them juicy and tender.

Add vegetables for a complete meal

To make your Baked Boursin Salmon even more wholesome, why not add some seasonal vegetables? Roasted asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini slices work wonderfully alongside the dish. Simply toss your chosen veggies in olive oil and seasonings, place them around the salmon in the baking dish, and enjoy a colorful, nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor!

For more inspiration, you can check out seasonal vegetable guides from reputable sources like The Spruce Eats.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Baked Boursin Salmon

Ensuring Moist and Flavorful Salmon

To achieve tender and juicy salmon, avoid overcooking it! Keep an eye on the fillets as they bake at 425°F (220°C), checking for doneness around the 10-minute mark. If you’re unsure, the salmon should flake easily with a fork yet still look slightly translucent in the center. A simple tip: let the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking to lock in moisture. Pair your Baked Boursin Salmon with seasonal veggies or a fresh salad for a balanced meal!

Storage Tips for Leftovers

If you have any delicious leftovers (although it’s hard not to devour it all!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. When it’s time to enjoy them again, reheat slowly on low heat to keep the salmon moist and the Boursin sauce creamy. Remember, this dish doesn’t freeze well, so savor it fresh! Want more tips? Check out this handy guide on food storage and safety.

Serving Suggestions for Baked Boursin Salmon

Pairing ideas for sides

To create a well-rounded meal with your Baked Boursin Salmon, consider these delightful side dishes:

Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies drizzled with olive oil and herbs brings color and texture.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and decadent, these are perfect for soaking up the delicious Boursin sauce.
Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, a quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers adds a fresh crunch.

These options not only complement the salmon but also enhance the dining experience.

Presentation tips for a dinner party

Make your Baked Boursin Salmon shine at your next dinner party:

Use a large serving platter: Arrange the salmon fillets brushed with the Boursin sauce as the centerpiece.
Garnish beautifully: Add chopped parsley and lemon wedges around the dish for a pop of color.
Serve with style: Pair your salmon with elegant dishes, like linen napkins and simple glassware, to create a sophisticated atmosphere.

With these tips, your guests are sure to be impressed! For more entertaining ideas, check out these hosting tips from experts.

Time Breakdown for Baked Boursin Salmon

Preparation time
Get your game plan in motion with just 10 minutes of prep work! This includes gathering your ingredients, mixing your seasoning, and getting that lovely salmon ready for its flavorful adventure.

Cooking time
Once it’s in the oven, sit back and relax for 10-12 minutes. The salmon cooks quickly while soaking up all the delicious flavors from the Boursin cheese sauce.

Total time
In just about 20-22 minutes, you’ll have a mouthwatering Baked Boursin Salmon on your plate—perfect for a weekday dinner or a special occasion!

Looking for tips on how to enhance your meal? Check out resources like The Kitchn for helpful cooking advice.

Nutritional Facts for Baked Boursin Salmon

Caloric Content

When indulging in a serving of Baked Boursin Salmon, you can expect approximately 378 calories. This balance makes it an excellent choice for a nutritious meal without the guilt. Pairing this dish with fresh veggies or a light salad enhances its overall health benefits.

Protein and Fat Breakdown

Packed with 27 grams of protein, this salmon dish is not just delicious—it's also a fantastic option for muscle repair and overall health. In terms of fat, the dish contains 28 grams, with 13 grams coming from saturated fat. Most of this comes from the Boursin cheese and olive oil, providing a creamy flavor without overdoing it on your daily values.

Overall, Baked Boursin Salmon stands out as a nutritious yet indulgent meal that fits perfectly into a balanced diet. For more insights on healthy eating, check out Healthline!

FAQs about Baked Boursin Salmon

Can I use different types of fish?
Absolutely! While the recipe features salmon—known for its rich flavor and meaty texture—you can switch it up with other fish like trout or tilapia. Just remember that cooking times may vary, especially with thinner fillets. Always check for doneness with a fork; the fish should flake easily.

What to serve with the Baked Boursin Salmon?
For a well-rounded meal, pair your Baked Boursin Salmon with sides like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad. For something a bit heartier, consider serving it with garlic mashed potatoes or a creamy risotto. The creamy Boursin cheese sauce complements a variety of dishes beautifully.

How to store and reheat leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a pot over low heat. This method keeps the Boursin sauce intact and ensures your salmon remains moist and flavorful. Remember, this dish doesn’t freeze well due to the dairy content in the sauce.

For more tips, check out sources like Food Network for insights on cooking seafood.

Conclusion on Baked Boursin Salmon

Baked Boursin Salmon is not just a meal; it's a delightful culinary adventure that brightens any dinner table. With its creamy cheese sauce and zesty flavors, this dish offers rich taste and a healthy dose of protein. We hope you give it a try and savor every bite!